Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ankit Patel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ankit, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

My musical journey began at a very young age, I have always been drawn to different forms of music, arts, and culture. The Shehnai instrument, with its rich history and unique sound, captivated me from the start. The Shehnai is an ancient Indian oboe, known as the ‘King of Flutes’. It is a double-reed instrument that has been a staple in Hindu temples and wedding ceremonies in India for thousands of years.

One thing I realize is the immense value of formal training, especially with an instrument as complex as the Shehnai. My fascination with it led me to seek formal training because mastering the Shehnai requires a deep understanding and respect for its traditions and technical complexities. The guidance of a skilled teacher is invaluable, and I believe that finding the right mentor as early as possible can significantly accelerate the learning process.

And I was fortunate to learn from a Guruji in Mumbai, who has been my mentor and teacher for the past 12 years. Under his guidance, I’ve been able to explore the depths of the Shehnai’s potential. My Guruji’s warmth and dedication have been a major source of inspiration, and I am deeply grateful for his mentorship.

The most essential skills for mastering the Shehnai, and perhaps any classical instrument, are discipline, patience, and a deep passion and love for music. Another thing is consistent practice, as it helps you progress more quickly. Also, understanding the nuances of the Shehnai’s sound and being able to adapt and express emotions through the instrument requires a sharp ear and a creative mind.

One of the significant obstacles in learning the Shehnai is that it is an extremely difficult instrument to play because its tones can be ‘bendy’ and it’s very hard to stay on pitch. So it demands a lot of patience and persistence, which can be daunting at times. But it’s not boring, it is a fun and creative instrument. It’s got a lot of emotion and is extremely versatile. You just need to be open to constant learning and experimenting with different styles and techniques. So, despite some obstacles, my love for the instrument has kept me on this path, and I continue to learn and grow as a musician every day.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’ve been passionate about music since a very young age and I started out as a keyboard player. But after many years I was introduced to the Shehnai. The raw and soulful sound of this ancient instrument just fascinated me, and I felt an immediate connection to it. Since 2015, I’ve focused intensely on mastering the Shehnai, and for the past seven years, I’ve been performing live at various events, especially Hindu wedding ceremonies. The Shehnai is traditionally a wedding instrument used to create a sacred and elevated atmosphere. My performances bring a unique and rare sound to events, offering something truly special.

What really sets me apart is my approach to the Shehnai. It’s a rare instrument today, and I’m one of the few Shehnai players in the world, particularly in the United States. And this is where my brand, Shehnai Guy, stands out. Beyond live performances, I also create modern fusion covers that blend the authentic, traditional tones of the Shehnai with modern beats. I’ve been creating modern fusion covers that have a fresh, innovative sound, and they resonate with contemporary audiences. These covers include both old and contemporary songs, and instrumental versions of classic and modern Bollywood songs and melodies.

I’m incredibly proud to have revived an interest in the Shehnai through my innovative covers and live performances. It’s very rewarding to see people, especially those unfamiliar with the ancient instrument, appreciate its beauty and versatility.

In addition to my solo work as the Shehnai Guy, I’m also the founder and manager of the Surya Ensemble. We are a group of creative world musicians hosting live music concerts in Atlanta. The group consists of a Shehnai, violin, guitar, viola, and Persian drums, and a cultural dancer. We’re putting on an experience that has never been seen before, at least here in Atlanta and most of the United States. Our shows blend cultural storytelling with a unique East-meets-West fusion. Surya is all about creating a soulful, intimate, exotic musical experience that transports you to different cultures through captivating sounds and performances.

Whether through the Shehnai Guy or with Surya, I strive to blend tradition with modernity, and offer a unique and educational musical experience. This dedication to preserving and innovating traditional Indian music is what I’m most proud of and what sets me apart in the music world.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Well, finding a purpose and meaning in what you do can be a bit hard sometimes. For me, it’s all about the chase, the process of working towards my goals. Actually achieving them is like the cherry on top, but the real joy is in the hustle.

My brand, the Shehnai Guy, it’s not only about me or the music. One of the main reasons I started this project was to inspire the next generation to chase their dreams, pick up their hobbies, nurture their talents, and really go after their passions. Music, and especially traditional music like what I play, can be a powerful way to connect with your roots and express yourself.

Another major part of my mission is to educate the world about the Shehnai. This instrument has been around for 4,000 years, but unfortunately, it’s not as well-known or valued in modern times. Many people, especially in the West, might not even be aware that the Shehnai exists. I’ve taken it upon myself to revive this classical instrument and make it cool and relevant for today’s generation. I feel like I’m bringing the Shehnai back to life, making it something fresh and exciting.

So my ultimate goal is to bring the Shehnai into the mainstream. I want to educate the world about the Shehnai, and ensure it remains alive and is never forgotten. I believe I’m one of the few, if not the only, Shehnai players in the States, which makes this mission even more important.

The Shehnai holds a special place in Indian culture, particularly in weddings, where it’s traditionally used. People really appreciate and want a live Shehnai player for their wedding. And there’s something incredibly powerful about playing live at these ceremonies. It’s a big responsibility for me, but it’s such a rewarding one!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being a musician has taken me on some incredible journeys! I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to travel all over the United States for weddings, parties, and other events to perform and play the Shehnai. It’s been an amazing experience, and there are so many opportunities here in the States.

One of the most rewarding aspects for me is being part of the unique Surya Ensemble project. It’s so fulfilling to perform with other talented musicians, and to see people come to our shows to listen, watch, and appreciate this type of art and culture.

Also, seeing the response to my music online and knowing that it resonates with people, whether they’re at a live event or listening online, is incredibly rewarding. As the Shehnai Guy, I’ve gained a loyal following on social media, with many thousands of people supporting and enjoying my music on Instagram alone.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future, especially with the continued growth of the Surya Ensemble. We have monthly shows planned throughout the year, and I’m excited to keep contributing to Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene. If you’re looking for a great night out and want to experience something unique and captivating, I invite you to join us at one of our concerts. For more information and tickets to Surya’s upcoming shows, you can visit our website at www.suryaensemble.com. It’s going to be amazing and I hope to see you there!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.suryaensemble.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suryaensemble
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suryaensemble
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/suryaensemble
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@suryaensemble
• Other: Email: [email protected]
  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@suryaensemble
  Get your tickets @ https://suryaensemble.eventbrite.com

Image Credits

Surya Ensemble